America's Best City Parks for Picnics

There are over a million acres of urban parkland across the U.S., and city dwellers take serious pleasure in arranging a blanket on these great lawns for a delicious picnic feast. Find out which areas are home to some of the best picnic parks in the country. Then tell us where you love to set up picnics.

Looking forward to more picnics this summer? We want to help! Check out these ideas for a healthier picnic and these recipes for your foodie family. Don't forget the SPF!

Laurelhurst Park; Portland, OR

Where to Picnic: A decade ago, Laurelhurst Park became the first city park to be named to the National Register of Historic Places. Its open meadow is visible from the western entrance, but the field's slight dip — and surrounding fir and plane trees — lend a more secluded feel.

What to Pack: At Laurelhurst Market, partner David Kreifels assembles spectacular sandwiches combining house-made deli meats with breads from local bakery Fleur de Lis (available from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

About a five-minute walk from the park; 3155 E. Burnside, 503-206-3099.